Oregon Teacher of the Year
Giving back to outstanding educators
Since 2016, the Oregon Lottery has proudly sponsored Teacher of the Year to reward our state’s amazing teachers, who dedicate their lives to inspiring students every day.
Recognizing Amazing Teachers since 1955
In 1955, Oregon honored Margaret (Perry) Teufel of Monmouth Elementary School as its first Teacher of the Year. 1955 was an exciting year for Margaret and for Oregon as she was also awarded the National Teacher of the Year. Twice more, an Oregon educator received our nation’s highest honor – 1973 with John Ensworth of Kenwood Elementary in Bend and 2008 with Mike Geisen of Crook County Middle School in Prineville.
Oregon Lottery + Teacher of the Year
That proud tradition that started in 1955 continues to this day as the Oregon Department of Education honors an outstanding educator as Teacher of the Year. In 2016, the Oregon Lottery began assisting with the Teacher of the Year program in the form of sponsorship and logistical support to help expand the program and increase the rewards for regional and statewide honorees who exemplify the dedication and passion of Oregon’s finest educators.
Is there a teacher making a big difference in your community?
Nominate them for Teacher of the Year! It’s as easy as filling out a form on the Teacher of the Year website with some details about what makes them exceptional.
Nominate a TeacherA Brief History of Teacher of the Year
The United States established the Teacher of the Year program as a way to nationally recognize outstanding educators.
Oregon began its participation in Teacher of the Year and first honored Margaret Perry, who went on to win the national title that year.
John A. Ensworth, a sixth grade teacher from Bend, became Oregon’s second teacher to win the national title.
Michael Geisen, a middle school science teacher from Prineville, became Oregon’s third teacher to win the national title.
The Oregon Lottery sponsored Oregon’s Teacher of the Year program and opened the door to rewarding winners with cash gifts and school funding.
Oregon’s Teacher of the Year program expanded to recognize 19 regional winners, Each regional winner receives $1,000 and is considered for the state title.